Scientists at the University of Cambridge say they have resolved a long-standing puzzle in obesity research: how both activating and blocking the same brain receptor can reduce food intake and body weight. The study found that the answer lies not simply in whether the receptor is switched on or off, but in where it is located in the brain. The findings were published in Nature Metabolism under the title “Distinct brain regions mediate regulation of food intake in response to GIPR agonism or antagonism”. The study was led by Dr Jo Edward Lewis and colleagues at the University of Cambridge’s Institute of Metabolic Science.<h2>The GIPR paradox</h2>The receptor at the centre of this discovery is the glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide receptor (GIPR), which is involved in regulating appetite, metabolism and blood sugar. GIPR is an important target in the development of obesity medicines. Drugs such as tirzepatide, sold as Mounjaro and Zepbound, activate GIPR alongside the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor. Other experimental medicines take the opposite approach by blocking GIPR. MariTide, currently in Phase 3 clinical trials, combines GIPR antagonism with GLP-1 receptor activation. The apparent contradiction has puzzled researchers for years. Why should both stimulating and blocking the same receptor contribute to weight loss?<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/weight-loss-drugs-fuel-protein-rich-whey-craving-demand-for-protein-rich-whey-explodes-1778001291434/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/weight-loss-drugs-fuel-protein-rich-whey-craving-demand-for-protein-rich-whey-explodes-1778001291434/embed</a><h2>It is the brain region that determines the outcome</h2>Cambridge researchers used genetically engineered mice in which GIPR could be selectively removed from particular regions of the brain. One group lacked GIPR in the brainstem, while another lacked the receptor in the hypothalamus. A control group retained normal GIPR expression. The researchers then examined responses to GIPR agonists and antagonists, as well as GLP-1 medicines used alone and in combination. The experiments revealed two distinct mechanisms. When GIPR is activated in the brainstem, it suppresses appetite, reducing food consumption and body weight. Blocking GIPR in the hypothalamus, on the other hand, strengthens the brain’s response to signals indicating that the body is full.In the hypothalamus, GIPR appears to act as a brake on satiety signalling. Blocking the receptor releases that brake, allowing fullness signals to become more powerful and reducing food intake through a different pathway.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/beyond-the-scale-the-hard-truth-about-fitness-nobody-talks-about-1781351991790">Beyond the scale: The hard truth about fitness nobody talks about</a>&nbsp;The researchers monitored food intake, body weight, fat mass, blood-sugar control and brain activity throughout the study. Their findings suggest that the same receptor can influence weight loss through different neural circuits depending on its location in the brain.<h2>What the discovery means for future combination drugs</h2>The researchers also found evidence that GIPR blockade could enhance the effects of medicines targeting the amylin receptor. This raises the possibility of combining different hormone pathways to produce stronger weight-loss effects. The findings could help researchers develop more precise obesity treatments that target specific brain circuits rather than treating GIPR as a single, uniform switch.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/next-weight-loss-breakthrough-astrazeneca-tests-a-daily-pill-1780986473092">Next weight-loss breakthrough? AstraZeneca tests a daily pill - Elecoglipron</a>&nbsp;“Understanding which brain circuits respond to these medications – and how they do so – could help us design better drugs that produce more weight loss with fewer side effects, and which might work in combination with other obesity medicines to even greater effect,” Lewis said.The study was funded by the UK Medical Research Council and Wellcome. As the research was conducted in mice, the findings do not yet establish that the same mechanisms will operate identically in humans. However, the work provides a framework for developing the next generation of obesity medicines and reinforces the central role of the brain in regulating body weight.

Cambridge scientists found why activating and blocking a brain receptor can both cause weight loss. The drugs act on different brain regions, revealing new pathways for more effective obesity treatments.

Scientists at the University of Cambridge say they have resolved a long-standing puzzle in obesity research: how both activating and blocking the same brain receptor can reduce food intake and body weight. The study found that the answer lies not simply in whether the receptor is switched on or off, but in where it is located in the brain. The findings were published in Nature Metabolism under the title “Distinct brain regions mediate regulation of food intake in response to GIPR agonism or antagonism”. The study was led by Dr Jo Edward Lewis and colleagues at the University of Cambridge’s Institute of Metabolic Science. The GIPR paradox The receptor at the centre of this discovery is the glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide receptor (GIPR), which is involved in regulating appetite, metabolism and blood sugar. GIPR is an important target in the development of obesity medicines. Drugs such as tirzepatide, sold as Mounjaro and Zepbound, activate GIPR alongside the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor. Other experimental medicines take the opposite approach by blocking GIPR. MariTide, currently in Phase 3 clinical trials, combines GIPR antagonism with GLP-1 receptor activation. The apparent contradiction has puzzled researchers for years. Why should both stimulating and blocking the same receptor contribute to weight loss? https://www.wionews.com/videos/weight-loss-drugs-fuel-protein-rich-whey-craving-demand-for-protein-rich-whey-explodes-1778001291434/embed It is the brain region that determines the outcome Cambridge researchers used genetically engineered mice in which GIPR could be selectively removed from particular regions of the brain. One group lacked GIPR in the brainstem, while another lacked the receptor in the hypothalamus. A control group retained normal GIPR expression. The researchers then examined responses to GIPR agonists and antagonists, as well as GLP-1 medicines used alone and in combination. The experiments revealed two distinct mechanisms. When GIPR is activated in the brainstem, it suppresses appetite, reducing food consumption and body weight. Blocking GIPR in the hypothalamus, on the other hand, strengthens the brain’s response to signals indicating that the body is full. In the hypothalamus, GIPR appears to act as a brake on satiety signalling. Blocking the receptor releases that brake, allowing fullness signals to become more powerful and reducing food intake through a different pathway. Also read: Beyond the scale: The hard truth about fitness nobody talks about The researchers monitored food intake, body weight, fat mass, blood-sugar control and brain activity throughout the study. Their findings suggest that the same receptor can influence weight loss through different neural circuits depending on its location in the brain. What the discovery means for future combination drugs The researchers also found evidence that GIPR blockade could enhance the effects of medicines targeting the amylin receptor. This raises the possibility of combining different hormone pathways to produce stronger weight-loss effects. The findings could help researchers develop more precise obesity treatments that target specific brain circuits rather than treating GIPR as a single, uniform switch. Also read: Next weight-loss breakthrough? AstraZeneca tests a daily pill - Elecoglipron “Understanding which brain circuits respond to these medications – and how they do so – could help us design better drugs that produce more weight loss with fewer side effects, and which might work in combination with other obesity medicines to even greater effect,” Lewis said. The study was funded by the UK Medical Research Council and Wellcome. As the research was conducted in mice, the findings do not yet establish that the same mechanisms will operate identically in humans. However, the work provides a framework for developing the next generation of obesity medicines and reinforces the central role of the brain in regulating body weight.

Cambridge scientists found why activating and blocking a brain receptor can both cause weight loss. The drugs act on different brain regions, revealing new pathways for more effective obesity treatments.

Scientists solve brain “switch” mystery behind weight loss in possible game changer for obesity drugs

A new Columbia University study has found that insufficient sleep may significantly increase the risk of obesity, heart disease, and other long-term health problems. Researchers say maintaining healthy sleep habits is essential for improving overall physical and cardiovascular health.

Study: Adequate sleep will help reduce risks of weight gain

Columbia University study flags less sleep leads to obesity, heart issues

A new study has linked weight gain in early adulthood to a higher risk of developing certain cancers later in life. Researchers found that men who gained excess weight in their 20s faced a significantly higher risk of colon cancer, while women who were obese before 30 were more likely to develop womb cancer. Experts say hormonal changes, inflammation, and long-term metabolic stress may play a major role. Obesity is already considered one of the leading preventable causes of cancer in several countries, including the UK.


Study Warns Weight Gain In Your 20s Could Raise Cancer Risk Later In Life

Cancer cases in the UK have reached a record high, with analysis from Cancer Research UK indicating a diagnosis occurs roughly every 80 seconds. Over 403,000 people are diagnosed annually, driven by an aging population, rising obesity levels, and increased strain on NHS services. 


Report: UK Detects A Cancer Per 80 Seconds; Ageing Population Leading to Rise in Case 

A new ban on junk food advertising on television before 9 pm and online at all times came into force on Monday as part of the UK government’s crackdown on childhood obesity rates. The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) said the ban on adverts for less healthy food and sugary drinks is expected to remove up to 7.2 billion calories from children’s diets each year.


UK bans junk food advertising on TV, online to combat childhood obesity 

Obesity is emerging as a serious health issue in the state of Gujarat, with every fourth person being overweight according to the official data. 

Further, the state health department statistics say that the obesity rate in the state is 22.6 per cent among women and 19.9 per cent among men. 23 out of 100 men and 20 out of 100 women in Gujarat are obese. 

And overall, nearly 22 lakh people in the age group 15-49 are suffering from obesity. 

Medical professionals also report a 10 per cent rise in the number of people seeking obesity treatment, with most patients in the 30-45 age group and the majority of them being women.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gujarat ranks among the top 10 states in India that are witnessing a rise in obesity. 

In 2021, the states with the highest obesity prevalence were Puducherry, Chandigarh, and Delhi. Other states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Punjab also have high figures, particularly for abdominal obesity, with prevalence rates around 60% for women in some cases. 

And within gujarat, four major districts like Surat, Ahmedabad, Vadodara and Gandhinagar top the list when it comes to obesity. 

Health experts believe urban populations and younger generations are more affected because it is linked to sedentary lifestyles, increased consumption of fast food and restaurant meals, and higher family incomes.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Doctors warn that excess weight can lead to serious health risks, including heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, arthritis, and even cancer. 

Obesity is determined by the Body Mass Index (BMI), which calculates weight in relation to height. 

Health experts urge citizens to monitor their BMI, maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and adopt healthier lifestyles to curb the rising trend.

The state is addressing this by implementing initiatives like the "Healthy Gujarat, Obesity-Free Gujarat" campaign and opening the state's first obesity clinic to combat the growing public health concern. 

Recently this week, the Gujarat State Yoga Board also announced a large-scale initiative aimed at tackling obesity across the state. 

The campaign seeks to help 10 lakh citizens reduce 10 kilos each through yoga and lifestyle changes, amounting to a collective weight loss target of one crore kilos.&nbsp;

Obesity is emerging as a serious health issue in the state of Gujarat, with every fourth person being overweight according to the official data. 

Obesity is emerging as a serious health issue in the state of Gujarat, with every fourth person being overweight according to the official data. Further, the state health department statistics say that the obesity rate in the state is 22.6 per cent among women and 19.9 per cent among men. 23 out of 100 men and 20 out of 100 women in Gujarat are obese. And overall, nearly 22 lakh people in the age group 15-49 are suffering from obesity. Medical professionals also report a 10 per cent rise in the number of people seeking obesity treatment, with most patients in the 30-45 age group and the majority of them being women. Gujarat ranks among the top 10 states in India that are witnessing a rise in obesity. In 2021, the states with the highest obesity prevalence were Puducherry, Chandigarh, and Delhi. Other states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Punjab also have high figures, particularly for abdominal obesity, with prevalence rates around 60% for women in some cases. And within gujarat, four major districts like Surat, Ahmedabad, Vadodara and Gandhinagar top the list when it comes to obesity. Health experts believe urban populations and younger generations are more affected because it is linked to sedentary lifestyles, increased consumption of fast food and restaurant meals, and higher family incomes. Doctors warn that excess weight can lead to serious health risks, including heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, arthritis, and even cancer. Obesity is determined by the Body Mass Index (BMI), which calculates weight in relation to height. Health experts urge citizens to monitor their BMI, maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and adopt healthier lifestyles to curb the rising trend. The state is addressing this by implementing initiatives like the "Healthy Gujarat, Obesity-Free Gujarat" campaign and opening the state's first obesity clinic to combat the growing public health concern. Recently this week, the Gujarat State Yoga Board also announced a large-scale initiative aimed at tackling obesity across the state. The campaign seeks to help 10 lakh citizens reduce 10 kilos each through yoga and lifestyle changes, amounting to a collective weight loss target of one crore kilos.

Obesity is emerging as a serious health issue in the state of Gujarat, with every fourth person being overweight according to the official data.&nbsp;

Gujarat: Nearly 22 lakh people are suffering from obesity

Child obesity has become increasingly common in parts of the world where undernutrition was once more prevalent.


UN report reveals child obesity tripled between 2000 & 2025 |

The Press Information Bureau (PIB), the Indian government's fact-check body, on Tuesday (July 15) stressed that the health ministry did not advise vendors to carry warning labels on Indian snacks including jalebi, laddoo and samosa, calling the media reports, "misleading and incorrect".The fact-check unit said that the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare's advisory did not include any warning labels on food items sold by local vendors, stressing that there has been no specific target for Indian snacks."There have been some media reports claiming that the Union Health Ministry has directed to issue of Warning Labels on food products such as samosa, jalebi, and laddoo," he said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Some media reports claim that the <a href="https://twitter.com/MoHFW_INDIA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MoHFW_INDIA</a> has issued a health warning on food products such as samosas, jalebi, and laddoo.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PIBFactCheck?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PIBFactCheck</a> ✅This claim is <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/fake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#fake</a> ✅The advisory of the Union Health Ministry does not carry any warning labels on food products sold by vendors,… <a href="https://t.co/brZBGeAgzs">pic.twitter.com/brZBGeAgzs</a>&mdash; PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) <a href="https://twitter.com/PIBFactCheck/status/1945080930554552534?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

It added that the health ministry had separately issued an advisory which is an initiative towards making healthier choices at workplaces, advising people about "display of Boards in various workplaces such as lobbies, canteens, cafeterias, meeting rooms etc., to raise awareness on harmful consumption of hidden fats and excess sugar."It stressed that these boards will be installed to raise awareness and as daily reminders on fighting obesity.&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/tackling-obesity-a-global-problem-8164398/embed&nbsp;"The Health Ministry Advisory does not direct Warning Labels on food products sold by vendors, and has not been selective towards Indian snacks. It does not target India's rich street food culture," the statement by the PIB read.The general advisory issued yesterday was a "behavioural nudge" to make people aware of hidden fats and excess sugar in all food products and not any particular food product."The Advisory mentions other health messages such as promoting healthy meals such as fruits, vegetables and low-fat options along with making suggestions for opting for physical activity such as encouraging use of stairs, organising short exercise breaks and facilitating walking routes," it added.This comes after the Union Health Ministry rolled out a public health initiative to promote healthy lifestyles. According to reports, the health ministry alerted all central institutions to carry ‘oil and sugar boards’, while AIIMS Nagpur has already been instructed.“This is the beginning of food labelling becoming as serious as cigarette warnings,” said Dr Amar Amale, president of the Cardiological Society of India’s Nagpur chapter, told news outlet Times of India.

The Indian government's fact check unit dismissed media reports stating that vendors will carry warning labels on Indian snacks including samosa, jalebi and laddoos, calling it "misleading".

The Press Information Bureau (PIB), the Indian government's fact-check body, on Tuesday (July 15) stressed that the health ministry did not advise vendors to carry warning labels on Indian snacks including jalebi, laddoo and samosa, calling the media reports, "misleading and incorrect". The fact-check unit said that the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare's advisory did not include any warning labels on food items sold by local vendors, stressing that there has been no specific target for Indian snacks. "There have been some media reports claiming that the Union Health Ministry has directed to issue of Warning Labels on food products such as samosa, jalebi, and laddoo," he said.

The Indian government's fact check unit dismissed media reports stating that vendors will carry warning labels on Indian snacks including samosa, jalebi and laddoos, calling it "misleading".

Samosas, jalebis to not carry health warnings: PIB factchecks - Here's what the new statement says

China faces fast-rising rates of obesity, with the government saying more than half of adults are already classified as overweight. Rapid urbanisation and economic development have led to more sedentary lifestyles.

China faces health time bomb as obesity rates surge

Married men three times more likely to be obese than unmarried men, says study. Watch to know more!

Marriage equals to weight gain? Study says 'yes'

Marriage triples the risk of obesity for men but does not affect women, according to new research. Researchers also find an increased risk of both sexes being overweight if married. Watch this report for more details!

Being married triples the risk of obesity in men, study suggests

Study shows married men three times more likely to be obese

The issue of obesity affects millions of people worldwide. In the latest study, researchers found that one gene called DENND1B drives some Labrador Retrievers to overeat and gain weight. The same gene is also found in humans.&nbsp;
The study published in the journal Science revealed that British Labrador Retrievers have multiple genes related to canine obesity.&nbsp;
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The study found that some Labrador Retrievers don&rsquo;t know when to stop when it comes to hunger eating, and they also have multiple genes associated with canine obesity. The study revealed that the same genes found in these perennially hungry hounds are also associated with obesity in humans.&nbsp;
The researchers performed a canine genome-wide association study for body condition score, which is a measure of obesity, in 241 Labrador Retrievers.&nbsp;
They used a cross-species approach to show canine obesity genes are also associated with rare and common forms of obesity in humans.&nbsp;
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The study found that lead canine association was within the gene DENN domain containing 1B (DENND1B) and each copy of the alternate allele was associated with ~7% greater body fat.&nbsp;
"We demonstrate a role for this gene in regulating signaling and trafficking of melanocortin 4 receptor, a critical controller of energy homeostasis. Thus, canine genetics identified obesity genes and mechanisms relevant to both dogs and humans," the authors said in the study.&nbsp;
As quoted by BBC, lead researcher Dr Eleanor Raffan from the University of Cambridge's Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience, explained, "By studying dogs, we've honed in on some interesting new biology here."&nbsp;
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She further added that the discovery showed that "owners of slim dogs are not morally superior - and the same is true of slim people".&nbsp;
"If you have a high genetic risk of obesity, you're prone to gaining weight unless you put a huge effort into not doing so. And those with low genetic risk just don't have to work so hard."&nbsp;
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The study found that DENND1B was associated with a higher body mass in the Labradors. The researchers then searched through a library of genetic information from thousands of humans, and they were surprised to see that the same gene was associated with a higher body mass in people.&nbsp;
"No one suspected that gene had anything to do with obesity" before this study of Labrador genetics, Dr Raffan said, further adding, "It alters the predisposition to weight gain because it's tweaking a system that is involved in regulating how hungry we feel and how much energy we burn off."

Science & Tech | Learn about the canine genome-wide association study revealing obesity genes. The research identifies DENNDB as a key factor in energy regulation for both species.

The issue of obesity affects millions of people worldwide. In the latest study, researchers found that one gene called DENND1B drives some Labrador Retrievers to overeat and gain weight. The same gene is also found in humans. The study published in the journal Science revealed that British Labrador Retrievers have multiple genes related to canine obesity. Also read: WhatsApp admin killed for removing member from group in Pakistan The study found that some Labrador Retrievers don’t know when to stop when it comes to hunger eating, and they also have multiple genes associated with canine obesity. The study revealed that the same genes found in these perennially hungry hounds are also associated with obesity in humans. The researchers performed a canine genome-wide association study for body condition score, which is a measure of obesity, in 241 Labrador Retrievers. They used a cross-species approach to show canine obesity genes are also associated with rare and common forms of obesity in humans. Also read: 3D-printed penis implant invented to restore erectile function: Study The study found that lead canine association was within the gene DENN domain containing 1B (DENND1B) and each copy of the alternate allele was associated with ~7% greater body fat. "We demonstrate a role for this gene in regulating signaling and trafficking of melanocortin 4 receptor, a critical controller of energy homeostasis. Thus, canine genetics identified obesity genes and mechanisms relevant to both dogs and humans," the authors said in the study. As quoted by BBC, lead researcher Dr Eleanor Raffan from the University of Cambridge's Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience, explained, "By studying dogs, we've honed in on some interesting new biology here." Also read: 'Floodlighting': A new toxic dating trend is emerging. Have you experienced it? She further added that the discovery showed that "owners of slim dogs are not morally superior - and the same is true of slim people". "If you have a high genetic risk of obesity, you're prone to gaining weight unless you put a huge effort into not doing so. And those with low genetic risk just don't have to work so hard." Also read: Hey, woman, painkillers won’t help you the way they help men The study found that DENND1B was associated with a higher body mass in the Labradors. The researchers then searched through a library of genetic information from thousands of humans, and they were surprised to see that the same gene was associated with a higher body mass in people. "No one suspected that gene had anything to do with obesity" before this study of Labrador genetics, Dr Raffan said, further adding, "It alters the predisposition to weight gain because it's tweaking a system that is involved in regulating how hungry we feel and how much energy we burn off."

You and your Labrador Retriever may share same gene linked to obesity: Study

A Lancet study reveals that global obesity rates have more than doubled in 30 years, with projections indicating a severe health crisis by 2050. Watch this report for more details!

Rates of overweight & obesity have more than doubled in 30 years

The burden of obesity is on the rise globally, as well as in India. A swift increase in the number of obese people shows that India could soon be facing an obesity epidemic, with alarm bells ringing particularly for the young. As levels of obesity rise across all zones in India, undernutrition and the accompanying outcome of an underweight population are now being replaced by signs of an overweight and obese population. Female obesity prevalence is also increasing sharply, with women showing a 9.8% prevalence, an increase of 8.6 percentage points from 1990. According to a Lancet study, in India, 44 million women and 26 million men aged above 20 are found to be obese. Watch in for more details!

Indian prime minister stresses upon urgent need to tackle obesity

Experts warn that obesity-related health conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers, are putting significant strain on healthcare systems and global economies.

Tackling obesity: A global problem

Health experts around the world have said there needs to be a "more accurate" and nuanced definition of obesity as there is a risk of too many people being diagnosed as obese.&nbsp;
In a report published on Tuesday (January 14), The Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology Commission said that despite evidence that some people with excess adiposity have ill health due to obesity, "obesity is generally considered a harbinger of other diseases, not a disease in itself."
"The idea of obesity as a disease remains therefore highly controversial," the report said.
<h2>The current definition of obesity</h2>
A recent report by BBC said that in many countries, obesity is defined as having a body mass index (BMI) over 30. The report said that access to weight-loss drugs is often restricted to patients in this category.&nbsp;
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The Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology Commission said that BMI reveals nothing about a patient's overall health and fails to distinguish between muscle and body fat or account for the more dangerous fat around the waist and organs.
<h2>What do experts suggest?</h2>
Global health experts suggested that doctors should consider the overall health of patients with excess fat, rather than just measuring their body mass index (BMI).
"In addition, current BMI-based measures of obesity can both underestimate and overestimate adiposity and provide inadequate information about health at the individual level," the report highlighted.
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The commission defined obesity as a condition characterised by excess adiposity, with or without abnormal distribution or function of adipose tissue, and with causes that are multifactorial and still incompletely understood.
<h2>Clinical obesity and pre-clinical obesity</h2>
The commission also defined two kinds of obesity- clinical obesity and pre-clinical obesity.
Clinical obesity: The commission defined this obesity as a chronic, systemic illness characterised by alterations in the function of tissues, organs, the entire individual, or a combination thereof, due to excess adiposity.
Clinical obesity can lead to severe end-organ damage, causing life-altering and potentially life-threatening complications such as heart attack, stroke, and renal failure.
Pre-clinical obesity:&nbsp;The commission said that pre-clinical obesity is a state of excess adiposity with preserved function of other tissues and organs and a varying, but generally increased, risk of developing clinical obesity and several other non-communicable diseases including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain types of cancer.
<a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/landia/article/PIIS2213-8587(24)00316-4/abstract" rel="dofollow">Click here to access the commission's report</a>
"Although the risk of mortality and obesity-associated diseases can rise as a continuum across increasing levels of fat mass, we differentiate between preclinical and clinical obesity (ie, health vs illness) for clinical and policy-related purposes," the commission said.
It also recommended that BMI should be used only as a surrogate measure of health risk at a population level, for epidemiological studies, or for screening purposes, rather than as an individual measure of health.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Global health experts suggested that doctors should consider the overall health of patients with excess fat, rather than just measuring their body mass index (BMI).

Health experts around the world have said there needs to be a "more accurate" and nuanced definition of obesity as there is a risk of too many people being diagnosed as obese. In a report published on Tuesday (January 14), The Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology Commission said that despite evidence that some people with excess adiposity have ill health due to obesity, "obesity is generally considered a harbinger of other diseases, not a disease in itself." "The idea of obesity as a disease remains therefore highly controversial," the report said. The current definition of obesity A recent report by BBC said that in many countries, obesity is defined as having a body mass index (BMI) over 30. The report said that access to weight-loss drugs is often restricted to patients in this category. Also read | How to tackle childhood obesity? Here's what a pediatrician has to say The Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology Commission said that BMI reveals nothing about a patient's overall health and fails to distinguish between muscle and body fat or account for the more dangerous fat around the waist and organs. What do experts suggest? Global health experts suggested that doctors should consider the overall health of patients with excess fat, rather than just measuring their body mass index (BMI). "In addition, current BMI-based measures of obesity can both underestimate and overestimate adiposity and provide inadequate information about health at the individual level," the report highlighted. Also read | Scientists discover mitochondria's role in reducing obesity The commission defined obesity as a condition characterised by excess adiposity, with or without abnormal distribution or function of adipose tissue, and with causes that are multifactorial and still incompletely understood. Clinical obesity and pre-clinical obesity The commission also defined two kinds of obesity- clinical obesity and pre-clinical obesity. Clinical obesity: The commission defined this obesity as a chronic, systemic illness characterised by alterations in the function of tissues, organs, the entire individual, or a combination thereof, due to excess adiposity. Clinical obesity can lead to severe end-organ damage, causing life-altering and potentially life-threatening complications such as heart attack, stroke, and renal failure. Pre-clinical obesity: The commission said that pre-clinical obesity is a state of excess adiposity with preserved function of other tissues and organs and a varying, but generally increased, risk of developing clinical obesity and several other non-communicable diseases including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain types of cancer. Click here to access the commission's report "Although the risk of mortality and obesity-associated diseases can rise as a continuum across increasing levels of fat mass, we differentiate between preclinical and clinical obesity (ie, health vs illness) for clinical and policy-related purposes," the commission said. It also recommended that BMI should be used only as a surrogate measure of health risk at a population level, for epidemiological studies, or for screening purposes, rather than as an individual measure of health. (With inputs from agencies)

Health experts say "more accurate" and nuanced definition of obesity needed. Here's why

Seventy is the new 60! New research has found that older people in England enjoy better health than ever. The findings, published in the journal Nature Ageing, reveal that the decline in age has slowed notably, giving hope for a healthier ageing process.

Seventy is the new 60! New research has found that older people in England enjoy better health than ever. The findings, published in the journal Nature Ageing, reveal that the decline in age has slowed notably, giving hope for a healthier ageing process. Amidst concerns over the rising rates of cancer and dementia, this study is the light at the end of the tunnel. It further shows that today's elderly population faces more intense levels of physical and mental balance than the previous generations did at the same age. Research highlights According to this study, a person who is 68 years old and born in 1950 is anticipated to have the same health condition as an individual who is 62 years old a decade earlier. John Beard, a professor of ageing at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health, said, “We were surprised by just how large these improvements were, particularly when comparing people born after World War Two with earlier-born groups.” The researchers observed data from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, noting those born between 1920 and 1959, aged 65 to 104 today. They measured “cognitive, locomotor, psychological, and sensory capacities” rather than specific diseases. Globally shining 'through' The health improvements are a result of education, good nutrition, better sanitation, and advancement in medical treatments like for high blood pressure and joint replacement. At a global level, these findings resonate well. An analysis using data from the China Health and Retirement Study said, “Our research suggests there have been significant improvements in functioning in more recent cohorts of older people in both England and China.” Professor Jay Olshansky of the University of Illinois, who wasn’t part of the study, described it as powerful. "It’s an optimistic message for the future.” Read More: Drastic signs of ageing show up twice in a lifetime. Once around 44, and then at... Risk warnings Though the findings are good, Beard warned against believing that the trend will continue. “There is nothing to say we will continue to see the same improvements moving forward,” he warned. Factors like increasing obesity could even reverse these trends. Watch | The Curious Case Of The Prematurely Ageing Space Heart Optimistic conclusion The research ends with a hopeful note. “Increasing life expectancy is being accompanied by large increases in health expectancy among more recent cohorts. This has positive implications for all of us, both as individuals and for society more broadly.” For many individuals, it looks like 70 no longer is about slowing down but rather enjoying life with the high-spiritedness of someone much younger. (With inputs from agencies)

Ageing a thing of the past? New study finds 70 is the new 60 because...

New Delhi, India 
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Seventy is the new 60! New research has found that older people in England enjoy better health than ever. The findings, published in the journal Nature Ageing, reveal that the decline in age has slowed notably, giving hope for a healthier ageing process.
Amidst concerns over the rising rates of cancer and dementia, this study is the light at the end of the tunnel. It further shows that today's elderly population faces more intense levels of physical and mental balance than the previous generations did at the same age.
<h2>Research highlights </h2>
According to this study, a person who is 68 years old and born in 1950 is anticipated to have the same health condition as an individual who is 62 years old a decade earlier.
John Beard, a professor of ageing at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health, said, “We were surprised by just how large these improvements were, particularly when comparing people born after World War Two with earlier-born groups.”
The researchers observed data from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, noting those born between 1920 and 1959, aged 65 to 104 today. They measured “cognitive, locomotor, psychological, and sensory capacities” rather than specific diseases.
<h2>Globally shining 'through'</h2>
The health improvements are a result of education, good nutrition, better sanitation, and advancement in medical treatments like for high blood pressure and joint replacement.
At a global level, these findings resonate well. An analysis using data from the China Health and Retirement Study said, “Our research suggests there have been significant improvements in functioning in more recent cohorts of older people in both England and China.”
Professor Jay Olshansky of the University of Illinois, who wasn’t part of the study, described it as powerful. "It’s an optimistic message for the future.”
Read More: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/drastic-signs-of-ageing-show-up-twice-in-a-lifetime-once-around-44-and-then-at-777696">Drastic signs of ageing show up twice in a lifetime. Once around 44, and then at...</a>
<h2>Risk warnings</h2>
Though the findings are good, Beard warned against believing that the trend will continue.
“There is nothing to say we will continue to see the same improvements moving forward,” he warned.
Factors like increasing obesity could even reverse these trends.
Watch | The Curious Case Of The Prematurely Ageing Space Heart
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<h2>Optimistic conclusion</h2>
The research ends with a hopeful note.
“Increasing life expectancy is being accompanied by large increases in health expectancy among more recent cohorts. This has positive implications for all of us, both as individuals and for society more broadly.”
For many individuals, it looks like 70 no longer is about slowing down but rather enjoying life with the high-spiritedness of someone much younger.
(With inputs from agencies)

According to this study, a person who is 68 years old and born in 1950 is anticipated to have the same health condition as an individual who is 62 years old a decade earlier.



New Delhi, India Seventy is the new 60! New research has found that older people in England enjoy better health than ever. The findings, published in the journal Nature Ageing, reveal that the decline in age has slowed notably, giving hope for a healthier ageing process. Amidst concerns over the rising rates of cancer and dementia, this study is the light at the end of the tunnel. It further shows that today's elderly population faces more intense levels of physical and mental balance than the previous generations did at the same age. Research highlights According to this study, a person who is 68 years old and born in 1950 is anticipated to have the same health condition as an individual who is 62 years old a decade earlier. John Beard, a professor of ageing at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health, said, “We were surprised by just how large these improvements were, particularly when comparing people born after World War Two with earlier-born groups.” The researchers observed data from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, noting those born between 1920 and 1959, aged 65 to 104 today. They measured “cognitive, locomotor, psychological, and sensory capacities” rather than specific diseases. Globally shining 'through' The health improvements are a result of education, good nutrition, better sanitation, and advancement in medical treatments like for high blood pressure and joint replacement. At a global level, these findings resonate well. An analysis using data from the China Health and Retirement Study said, “Our research suggests there have been significant improvements in functioning in more recent cohorts of older people in both England and China.” Professor Jay Olshansky of the University of Illinois, who wasn’t part of the study, described it as powerful. "It’s an optimistic message for the future.” Read More: Drastic signs of ageing show up twice in a lifetime. Once around 44, and then at... Risk warnings Though the findings are good, Beard warned against believing that the trend will continue. “There is nothing to say we will continue to see the same improvements moving forward,” he warned. Factors like increasing obesity could even reverse these trends. Watch | The Curious Case Of The Prematurely Ageing Space Heart Optimistic conclusion The research ends with a hopeful note. “Increasing life expectancy is being accompanied by large increases in health expectancy among more recent cohorts. This has positive implications for all of us, both as individuals and for society more broadly.” For many individuals, it looks like 70 no longer is about slowing down but rather enjoying life with the high-spiritedness of someone much younger. (With inputs from agencies)

The UK government is set to include unhealthy breakfast cereals such as muesli, porridge oats, and granola in its junk food advertising ban, effective next year. The initiative aims to limit children’s exposure to foods high in fat, sugar, or salt, as part of broader efforts to combat obesity-related illnesses, including diabetes. Watch to know more!

UK Government's Restriction On Junk Food Advertisements Before 9 PM | World News | WION

The U.S. Is facing a health crisis of epic proportions. A sweeping new study reveals a staggering statistic. Nearly three-quarters of American adults are overweight or obese. The implications are dire, as weight-related diseases threaten to overwhelm the nation's medical system.

Obesity Epidemic: A Looming Crisis

Obesity has reached alarming levels in the United States, becoming a major public health crisis. Rising rates of obesity are linked to various chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers, putting a significant strain on healthcare systems. Efforts to address the issue include promoting healthier lifestyles, improving access to nutritious foods, and raising awareness about the long-term health impacts of obesity.

Obesity Becomes A Health Crisis In The US

The United Kingdom has planned to use the weight-loss drugs to help unemployed people with obesity get back to work, British Health Minister Wes Streeting said on Tuesday. &nbsp;

London has been planning to test US firm Eli Lilly's Mounjaro jab amid the increasing popularity of the diabetes medication Ozempic and Wegovy from Danish pharma giant Novo Nordisk to treat obesity.

Streeting said that obesity was causing people to take an extra four sick days and was placing a huge burden on the state-run health care system.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/obesity-epidemic-on-the-rise-more-than-1-million-afflicted-around-the-world-695365">Also read:&nbsp;Obesity 'epidemic' on the rise, more than 1 billion afflicted around the world: Study</a>

"The long-term benefits of these drugs could be monumental in our approach to tackling obesity," Streeting said, referring to new drugs for the treatment of obesity.

<h2>Weight loss jabs 'very important' for unemployed people: UK PM&nbsp;</h2>

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that proposals to give weight loss jabs to unemployed people could be "very important" for our economy and health.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;UK: Semaglutide, the weight-loss drug, to be given out for free to eligible patients

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He further acknowledged that more money was needed for the state-run health care system, also known as the NHS, adding that the government also needed to "think differently" to ease pressure on the health system.

UK PM told the BBC the jabs would be "very helpful" to people who want and need to lose weight.

"(The drug is) very important for our NHS, because, yes we need more money for the NHS, but we've also got to think differently," he added.&nbsp;

He suggested the medicines could be "life changing" for individuals.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The United Kingdom has planned to use the weight-loss drugs to help unemployed people with obesity get back to work, British Health Minister Wes Streeting said on Tuesday.

The United Kingdom has planned to use the weight-loss drugs to help unemployed people with obesity get back to work, British Health Minister Wes Streeting said on Tuesday. London has been planning to test US firm Eli Lilly's Mounjaro jab amid the increasing popularity of the diabetes medication Ozempic and Wegovy from Danish pharma giant Novo Nordisk to treat obesity. Streeting said that obesity was causing people to take an extra four sick days and was placing a huge burden on the state-run health care system. Also read: Obesity 'epidemic' on the rise, more than 1 billion afflicted around the world: Study "The long-term benefits of these drugs could be monumental in our approach to tackling obesity," Streeting said, referring to new drugs for the treatment of obesity. Weight loss jabs 'very important' for unemployed people: UK PM UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that proposals to give weight loss jabs to unemployed people could be "very important" for our economy and health. Watch | UK: Semaglutide, the weight-loss drug, to be given out for free to eligible patients × He further acknowledged that more money was needed for the state-run health care system, also known as the NHS, adding that the government also needed to "think differently" to ease pressure on the health system. UK PM told the BBC the jabs would be "very helpful" to people who want and need to lose weight. "(The drug is) very important for our NHS, because, yes we need more money for the NHS, but we've also got to think differently," he added. He suggested the medicines could be "life changing" for individuals. (With inputs from agencies)

Unemployed people in UK may get weight loss jabs to return to work

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